Legislative Updates

Report from the Legislature

September 7, 2017

Report from the LegislatureSeptember 7, 2017From early learning and Pre-K to K-12 and post-secondary, students of all ages from ruralcommunities to Saskatchewan's cities are returning to school this week.Parents, teachers and bus drivers, counselors, EAs and admin, school support and maintenance staffare working together to ensure they receive a high-quality education.The start of a new school year can be an exciting time for all students and staff but it's particularlyexciting for those who are now spending their days in brand-new learning environments.Thousands of students and staff are settling in at 21 new schools across the province, includingeighteen schools on nine joint-use sites in Regina, Saskatoon, Warman and Martensville.With a growing population and aging facilities, we are responding to the need for new andreplacement schools by investing $1.5 billion in new capital projects.This means: 40 new schools 25 major renovations; and repairs and renos to more than half of all schools in the province.During Saskatchewan's decade of growth, student enrolment increased by 10 per cent with theoperating funding provided to school divisions increased by 32 per cent.Our government has also hired 875 new teachers, an increase of 10 per cent.Education continues to be a priority for our government.Our vision for Saskatchewan is to be the best place in Canada to get an education, live, work, raise afamily and build a life. The Ministry of Education works alongside all other government ministries andagencies towards this objective. It is committed to improving the learning success and well-being of allchildren and youth, and the enhancement of literacy for all Saskatchewan people.Early Years Learning is an important focus for the education system. Making sure all children get agood start not only leads to a better quality of life for Saskatchewan people, it reduces the risk ofpoverty and improves school readiness, health and wellness.Our government has added 6,000 new daycare spaces, an increase of 62 per cent. This year's budgetincludes funding for 889 new child care spaces. The majority of these spaces are included in the newschools in some of Saskatchewan's fastest-growing communities.Students at all levels of learning are excited for the new school year. Please remember to obey theposted speed limit and be extra careful when approaching and driving through school zones – watchfor crosswalks and school crossing guards as well as school buses that are loading and unloadingchildren.To all parents, educators and support staff, thank you for all you do. Best wishes for a successful yearof growth and learning!